Google, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter are some of the major social media platforms we all use daily. Who are the faces behind these sites? Information Technologists!
Information Technology is the field of creating, researching, maintaining, analyzing, and installing different computer systems and software. As the growth of technology is only increasing, those who choose this career path will certainly have a vibrant career with many different positions to choose from.
Because of the high demand, new graduates can expect a much higher average salary than other fields. Computer science professionals can also be employed in virtually any sector, which allows the professional to truly live out their passion. Like cars but also have a skill in programming? There are several cutting-edge car startups that are working to create models equipped with artificial intelligence. Keep reading to see how this degree can impact your future.
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What type of Bachelor's in Information Technology should you get?
The most common degree title you will find under this category will be a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or Information Technology. What are the major differences? A Computer Science degree is a more mathematically-focused degree whose courses mainly contain topics related to programming and creating. An Information Technology degree, while also including programming, prepares students to primarily maintain databases and install technology.
An online degree may be more preferable to non-traditional students who do not have time to attend regular on-campus classes. Online programs can either be taken completely from home or in a hybrid fashion with some evening or night classes at the actual campus. Online students get the same support system as any other student would, and have the ability to get involved with campus activities should they desire. Furthermore, online degrees may be cheaper in the long run.
Check out our ranking of the 10 Best Online Database Management Degrees in the country.
How much money do people make with an online Bachelor's in Information Technology?
Even with only a Bachelor's degree, those within the tech field are regarded as having some of the highest salaries. According toPayScale, the average degree of a BS in Computer Science holder is $82,000. A BS in Information Technology has an average salary of $69,000. As of many of these professionals decide to work for reputable large corporations or popular startups, they also have access to other special benefits in addition to a pretty good salary.
Many benefits of working in this field include paid time off (more than other industries), paid sick days, free company merchandise, and healthcare benefits. Depending on the job, some employees may also be able to work from home which may be ideal for those who have families. New graduates who are entering into the company should research the starting salaries in their area and learn salary negotiation skills to ensure they are receiving a fair salary. It is important to note that an online degree holder will not have a different starting salary than a "regular" student.
What can you do with an online Bachelor's in Information Technology?
An online degree holder in Information Technology will have a number of jobs to choose from within the tech world. In general, IT professionals create and maintain different software systems. As virtually every business uses a computer, administrators can find themselves working in a variety of industries anywhere from fashion to finance to the traditional tech firm.
Some common job titles include software engineer, information system manager, computer system analyst, or web developer. Database administrator jobs are expected to experience a growth of 11 percent from 2016 to 2026.
What are the requirements for an online Bachelor's in Information Technology?
As computer science-related majors are often very math heavy, students applying for these programs are advised to have taken several advanced math and science courses in high school. Some common classes that these schools look for are calculus, physics, and discrete mathematics. In addition to scoring particularly well on the mathematics portion of the SAT or ACT tests, students may also submit respective subject SAT or AP scores in the math and sciences.
Once accepted into the program, students will undertake a variety of classes ranging from general education courses to actual major courses. Depending on if a student chooses to concentrate in an area, he or she will also have to take additional focus electives. While usually not required for this major, internship programs may also be available and are great ways for students to earn credit while gaining meaningful work experience. A capstone or final project may be required in order to graduate from some online programs.
What are the Most Affordable Online Information Technology Degrees?
Our data is pulled from trusted sources including:
U.S. News and World Report
Bureau of Labor Statistics
PayScale
Princeton Review
Official college/university websites
The 35 schools listed here offer flexible, quality education at the most affordable rates. These degrees are organized by the average price it will cost you to earn the whole degree, fees and financial aid included. Whatever your goals in the literacy field, these programs can help you achieve them without breaking the bank.
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